Extensional degradation of concentrated polymer solutions: Use of GPC to quantify chain scission

The purpose of this research is to evaluate the extensional degradation of plastics under processing conditions. Polymer solutions are subjected to controlled extensional flow through an abrupt contraction. Experiments are performed using an opposed pistons, multi-pass extensional flow device. The extent of degradation is quantified by measuring rheological properties and changes in the molecular weight distribution. The degradation is related to the imposed flow conditions.